The Founder of Nice N’ Spiky Comedy Clara Heimerdinger recounts her journey from working at the BBC as a Business and Production Manager to running her own comedy business.
Having been involved in running comedy nights as a side hustle while progressing her career at the BBC, Clara gave it all up to start Nice N’ Spiky in 2019. A new business was born bringing together comedians, agents, clubs and venues. Over nearly six years, Clara has worked hard to grow her business, despite the best efforts of the pandemic to disrupt her progress. Discover how she pivoted, and came through it stronger.
Our discussion covers a wide range of issues, from how to monitor acts when you have four performing in different venues in one night. We explore the disparity between male and female comedians on the circuit, delving into the reasons why men still outnumber women three to one.
In celebration of her efforts, Clara entered the Best Businesswomen Awards in 2024 and won a Silver Award. She tells us why she got involved, and the joy of attending the gala final with her mother.
For anyone struggling to come to terms with running a business, this is a great episode to understand you’re not alone. Clara explains how she learns on the job, outsourcing where she can afford to, doing it herself when necessary.
You’ll also learn the charming reason why Clara named her business Nice N’ Spiky. It may not be what you think!
This is a great episode for anyone interested in the comedy circuit, but also for those considering turning a side-hustle into a fully fledged business.
{2:08} Why Clara quit the BBC to start Nice N’ Spiky.
{4:37} How the business generates revenue.
{6:17} Why Nice N’ Spiky?
{7:15} The challenges Clara has faced along the way.
{10:41} Delivering live events while building a team.
{13:00} Choosing which comedians to work with.
{16:20} The disparity between male and female comdians.
{18:18} Do women experience nerves more than men?
{20:54} Why Clara entered the Best Businesswomen Awards.
{23:15} Why bringing your Mum to the gala final is so special.
{25:18} Making the leap from side hustle to full-time business.
{28:15} Learning to run the business.
{29:11} Clara’s upcoming events.
Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk
Connect with Clara: https://nicenspiky.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicenspiky/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nice-n-spiky-comedy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicenspikycomedy
Upcoming events: https://linktr.ee/nicenspiky
